]]>A historical prepossessing paradigm, the Katas Raj is a splendid complex of temples dedicated to Hindu deities and mythology.

Situated at a distance of 16 kilometers from Kallar Kahar, Punjab, the site houses seven temples, remains of a Buddha Stupa, medieval sanctuaries, havelis and a sacred pond. As the faithful believe and the Brahmanical story narrates, the pond was created from a tear drop of Shiva as he flew across the sky carrying the dead body of his beloved wife. The legend also goes, the Pandavas came to this place during their exile and built the older temples. Prior to its Hindu roots the site held a Buddhist stupa said to have towered 61 m (200 ft) in height with ten streams around it as described by Alexander Cunningham, the first Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India, in 1872-73 CE.

Glorious History

The Katas Raj Temples, constitutes to one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the country and the holy site is visited by the Hindu community residing in Pakistan as well as from abroad. The architecture is heavily inspired by Kashmiri temples of the Karkota and Varma dynasties who ruled from 625-939 CE. These temples have certain defining characteristics such as the arches, fluted pillars and pointed roofs.

Locally known as ‘Qila Katas’ the sacred site is also close to Nankana Sahib Gurdwara believed to be the resting place for Guru Nanak on his journey around the world. Adjacent to the main temple are the remains of the haveli of Hari Singh Nalwa, the most famous general in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army. In proximity are the excavated remains of a Buddhist stupa, originally a temple complex that was built when the Subcontinent came under the sway of Buddhism during the reign of Emperor Ashoka. It is also reported that the famed Muslim scholar, Al Biruni spent countless nights on this site and studied astrology and Hinduism. He spent more than a decade between the Katas Raj Temples and Nandana, another sacred site, in his conquest to study extensively about the planets.

Sadly, little is known about the fact

That the temple had a university as well, of which, remains nothing but a mere staircase. The Hindu university was known for Hindu Philosophy and theology. Also connected to the Katas Raj Temples is a Gurdwara, not many know of. It is believed Guru Nanak stumbled upon the temples, later gathering devotees and gaining affluence. The Gurdwara was then constructed as a memorial for him.

The Sacred Pond

Amidst the temples is a blue pond said to hold immense historical and spiritual importance. It is reported that beneath the pond runs a small river which has a depth of 300 yards. The British archaeologists believed that the great pond was formed from the water that gushed from the natural springs found in the upper reaches of Jhelum.

Later it was discovered

That the pond built was partially man made, carved from a rock, and has a length of 122 feet. Hindus however, believe that the pond’s depth is limitless. History reports that deep down under the surface of water and beneath the temple there are a number of water streams running. But with time the pool has denigrated. Adjacent to the sacred pond is a Holy bath for men and there is one dedicated for women as well but on the southern side of the premises. These baths are beautifully constructed using marble and expertise ensues experienced craftsmen. Hindus widely believe, that, by taking a bath in the sacred pond washes all your sins and makes you pure and chaste.

The Temples

The biggest temple in the premises is dedicated to ‘Shiv Devta’. And the preceding temples are dedicated accordingly to Hindu faith and fundamentals. The temples were constructed almost 900 years ago. However the historians and scholars believe that most temples were built in the later half of the 6th Century when the Hindu Shahi kings were driven from Afghanistan by Mahmud of Ghazni.

The temples in Katas

are built on square platforms, the majestic shrines form a series of ornamental cornices surrounded by sub shrines and small row of pillars. One of the temples is said to have a double story structure with eight rooms of various dimensions elongated with two severely damaged balconies. Sadly, the whole temple requires various measures for restoration in order to preserve it for the generations to come.

Many famous scholars including Al-Biruni spent time at the Katas Raj Temples to study Sanskrit in the University. During his stay Al-Biruni wrote the famous ‘Kitabul Hind’ a book dedicated to religion and Hindu customs. Katas Raj Temple has also been a famous site amongst mystics and Hindu Jogis.

In the conquest for spiritual bliss, people have built monuments and tombs in dedication. Be it mountain top monasteries or secluded 1000 year old temples in the middle of nowhere, everyone has felt spiritual energy and indescribable clarity surrounding these sacred places. Pakistan, is known for cultural diversity, besides beautiful Mosques there are various shrines dedicated to people belonging to different faith. Besides the historical Katas Raj Temples, there is also the famous Nankana Sahib that holds immense historical importance for Sikhs all over the world.

Book a tour with us to discover the historical Katas Raj Temples and discover your roots!

]]>https://tripkar.com/blog/sacred-destination-katas-raj-temples/feed/0Islamabad International Airporthttps://tripkar.com/blog/Islamabad-international-airport/
https://tripkar.com/blog/Islamabad-international-airport/#respondThu, 16 Feb 2017 13:47:03 +0000https://tripkar.com/blog/?p=5202Islamabad International Airport is a modern state-of-the-art project that will be completed by August 2017. The airport is spread across 3600 acres and will facilitate people with the best aviation services. Seemingly, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif also professes to build airports in different parts of the country including Bannu and Mansehra to improve the provision for better transportation. […]

]]>Islamabad International Airport is a modern state-of-the-art project that will be completed by August 2017. The airport is spread across 3600 acres and will facilitate people with the best aviation services. Seemingly, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif also professes to build airports in different parts of the country including Bannu and Mansehra to improve the provision for better transportation.

Initially, the plan was to complete the project by mid 2016. However, the project had to be delayed in order to resolve various issues including increased cost, currency devaluation and infrastructure groundwork. The officials have yet to figure out road transport network and water facilities for the new airport. Nevertheless, the Islamabad International Airport is almost 60 percent complete with the plan to construct a second runway in order to improve air traffic flow.

This mega project is built in collaboration with Chinese companies for the lightning system and a French company, Airport De Paris for infrastructure design and implementation. The government plans to deploy a Singapore based company for consultancy services to cater almost 9 million passengers annually in the initial stage. With major prospects, the Islamabad International Airport will be the first airport in Pakistan to accommodate world’s largest aeroplane in its runway, Airbus A-380. There are plans to construct an emergency runway that will accommodate simultaneous landing and takeoffs without any disruption.

National Highway Authority has been appointed to construct road networks by connecting major routes including Motorway Link Road, G.T road Interchange and Zero Point Interchange to envisage traffic flow created by the new airport. The Prime Minister of Pakistan professes that the airport will host as a regional hub for travelers with services that will exceed expectations. The government also plans to expand Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore with the new division incorporating Mughal architecture to promote Pakistani culture and history.

There are a number of similar developmental projects taking place in different parts of the country which will definitely improve the influx of travelers from around the world, boosting tourism nationwide.

]]>https://tripkar.com/blog/Islamabad-international-airport/feed/0The Beautiful Bagh in Azad Kashmirhttps://tripkar.com/blog/the-beautiful-bagh-in-azad-kashmir/
https://tripkar.com/blog/the-beautiful-bagh-in-azad-kashmir/#respondMon, 30 Jan 2017 10:45:39 +0000https://tripkar.com/blog/?p=5082Bagh is the capital city of Azad Kashmir, situated on a confluence of two gushing rivers, Mahlwani and Mahl. The city’s tradition, culture and values closely resembles Poonch district situated in India. The beautiful Bagh in Azad Kashmir is surrounded by lush green foliage and vegetation. Visitors can also explore the famous Haji Pir Pass, […]

]]>Bagh is the capital city of Azad Kashmir, situated on a confluence of two gushing rivers, Mahlwani and Mahl. The city’s tradition, culture and values closely resembles Poonch district situated in India. The beautiful Bagh in Azad Kashmir is surrounded by lush green foliage and vegetation. Visitors can also explore the famous Haji Pir Pass, situated just 30 kilometers from the city.

The word, Bagh means greenery and as the name reflects this place is one of the most viridescent areas in Azad Kashmir. Besides being situated amidst forested hills and turquoise blue lakes the area is also environmentally protected by the forest department. Considering the climate changes in Pakistan and propelling effects of global warming, the beautiful Bagh city ensures a refreshing change.

There are various places for tourists and visitors to dwell in. The entire northern area of Bagh is a mountainous region. The famousPir-Panjal range lies here and the lofty mountain peaks are covered with coniferous trees. Besides creating a breath taking spectacle, adventure seekers can revel into adrenaline filled escapades such as mountain climbing and trekking.

The locals living in Bagh are devoted to agriculture and forestry. You can find poplar trees in abundance including walnut, willow, kikar and akhore. Bagh in Azad Kashmir is also famous for growing red roses, dahlia and daffodils. There are various fruit nurseries built by the agriculture department. Bagh also hosts a wild life sanctuary. Many endangered wild life species including the Leopard cat, Himalayan brown bear and Pakistan’s national animal Markhor can be found here.

There are various places to visit in Bagh including the famous Sudhan Gali. Located at height of 2134 meters from sea level, the scenic spot hosts a base camp for camping and hiking. The government also plans to construct a chair lift and resorts to promote tourism. Another famous tourist destination to visit is Dheerkot. Situated at an altitude of 1676 meters above sea level, Dheerkot offers breath taking scenery. Tourists can dwell into beautiful green landscape and thick forests ideal for exploration and camping. You an find various historical tidbits in Neela Butt an ideal destination for history fanatics.

Book a hotel online with Tripkar and visit the beautiful Bagh in Azad Kashmir and revel into nature’s harmony!

]]>https://tripkar.com/blog/the-beautiful-bagh-in-azad-kashmir/feed/0Top 5 Honeymoon Destinations in Pakistanhttps://tripkar.com/blog/top-5-honeymoon-destinations-in-pakistan/
https://tripkar.com/blog/top-5-honeymoon-destinations-in-pakistan/#respondFri, 25 Nov 2016 10:14:56 +0000https://tripkar.com/blog/?p=4124Pakistan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Abundantly blessed by Mother Nature, Pakistan has various beautiful honeymoon spots for couples to enjoy. Be it the snow covered emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, wild green mountain cliffs or enchanted forests, couples will have a splendid time, exploring the gorgeous places in Pakistan. We […]

]]>Pakistan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Abundantly blessed by Mother Nature, Pakistan has various beautiful honeymoon spots for couples to enjoy. Be it the snow covered emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, wild green mountain cliffs or enchanted forests, couples will have a splendid time, exploring the gorgeous places in Pakistan. We bring to you top 5 honeymoon destinations in Pakistan for an undeniably romantic getaway, now you can book honeymoon tour online:

Murree

One of the top honeymoon destinations in Pakistan is Murree. Situated at an altitude of 7500 feet, Murree is a popular hill station. Couples on their honeymoon can enjoy serene and beautiful sceneries including snow capped mountain peaks, gushing valleys and pleasant weather. There are various activities available for newly wed couples to enjoy including trout fishing and camping. Other places surrounding the beautiful hill station includes Ayubia, Nathia Gali and Thandiani. Nathia Gali holds immense historical patronage for couples to explore. Lush green meadows meandering around gushing rivers pose as an ideal picnic and camping spot.

Bhurban

Situated 9 kilometers from Murree, Bhurban is a beautiful honeymoon destination located amidst plush hills. There are various hotels available in Bhurban including the famous Pearl Continental. Couples looking to spend quality time, should look no more. From breathtaking views to awe inspiring beauty to exciting sports tournaments to musical evenings, PC Bhurban is the place to be.

Naran

Honeymoon couples looking for an adventure filled trip should definitely visit Naran. Besides being one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan, Naran also poses as an ideal place for adventure enthusiast. Couples can explore snow covered Himalayan peaks, trout fishing in turquoise blue lakes, a romantic walk through the pine tree forest and dwell into sightseeing. However, couples should be prepared for an exhausting number of activities to look out for, Naran has various spots for hiking, trekking and mountaineering too.

Skardu

Another top honeymoon destination in Pakistan is Skardu, an epitome of beauty and wilderness. From rich flora and fauna surrounding the city to matchless enchanting views, couples will have the time of their lives. There are various places for honeymoon couples to enjoy including the famous K2 museum built in 2004, Manthoka waterfalls a majestic waterfall and a desert located at the highest altitude in the world surrounded by snow mountains, nothing less than a natures marvel. Couples should definitely spend a day at Deosai plains, which is the highest plateau in the world. The plains are situated amidst streams and is a sanctuary to brown bears and golden marmots.

Swat

Swat Valley, also known as the Switzerland of Pakistan, is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the country. History aficionados can explore immense historical and archaeological treasures, which dates back to 2000 years. Besides being an ideal spot for honeymoon, couples can engage in various adventurous activities, including skiing, hiking, trekking and mountain climbing. For couples looking to spend some quality time together Swat is surrounded by awe inspiring beauty. There are various restaurants located at the bank of the river, that creates a magical atmosphere for newly weds.

With pleasant weather and beautiful honeymoon spots, book a hotel online with Tripkar to have the time of your life with your spouse!

]]>https://tripkar.com/blog/top-5-honeymoon-destinations-in-pakistan/feed/0World Tourism Day Celebrations at Tripkarhttps://tripkar.com/blog/world-tourism-day/
https://tripkar.com/blog/world-tourism-day/#respondThu, 29 Sep 2016 08:02:27 +0000https://tripkar.com/blog/?p=3259We at Tripkar celebrated World Tourism Day 2016 at its fullest. The aim of this day is to ponder upon the significance of tourism and its social, economic, political and cultural value to the economy. To celebrate this day we planned a fun filled evening amongst our colleagues with the objective of creating awareness and inform […]

]]>We at Tripkar celebrated World Tourism Day 2016 at its fullest. The aim of this day is to ponder upon the significance of tourism and its social, economic, political and cultural value to the economy. To celebrate this day we planned a fun filled evening amongst our colleagues with the objective of creating awareness and inform people about this day’s importance.

Firstly, we decided to ask everyone at our office about their thoughts on tourism. Surprisingly many believed tourism to be an important part of our country’s economy. Which is exactly what the objective of this day is! We then decided to make some props representing some famous tourist destinations including the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris and Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum situated in Karachi. Our creative team also made props representing the famous red telephone booth occasionally found in London.

Despite all the negative connotations related to Pakistan, the whole country is united to welcome tourists from all over the world. On this World Tourism Day 2016 plan to visit some of nature’s marvel residing all over the country. Travel Pakistan to experience awe inspiring scenic beauty, and let the world know about the hidden gems situated in the country.

Our day ended by cutting the delicious cake, enjoyed by everyone. All in all, it was a day spent celebrating the incredible diversity and beauty of our planet.

Book a tour with Tripkar to appreciate natural wonders present in Pakistan and have the time of your life!